Maharashtra Seeks Centre’s Support For Farmers Amid Rainfall Deficit, Demands ₹1,000 Crore For Mechanisation And Irrigation

Maharashtra's Agriculture Minister, Dattatray Bharne, has appealed to the Centre for urgent support to address the challenges faced by farmers due to inadequate and uneven rainfall. At the National Agriculture Conference–Rabi Campaign 2026, Bharne urged Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to visit Maharashtra promptly and assess the ground situation by interacting with farmers and inspecting their fields.

The minister highlighted that rain-fed farmers are expected to experience a shortage of soil moisture during the upcoming rabi season, which could adversely affect the production of crops such as gram, wheat, rabi jowar, safflower, and various oilseeds.

Bharne also cautioned against relying solely on satellite imagery to estimate crop yields for the insurance scheme. He argued that some crops might appear healthy on satellite images, even during prolonged dry spells, but their actual yield potential could suffer. Consequently, a ground-level assessment of crop conditions should be considered while determining the extent of losses.

Bharne requested an additional allocation of ₹500 crore each for agricultural mechanization and micro-irrigation in Maharashtra. This would enable the wider availability of the Broad Bed Furrow (BBF) system to farmers. Additionally, he sought ₹500 crore for micro-irrigation, emphasizing the importance of efficient water usage given the current weather conditions.

The state government has also sought approval for 10 lakh rabi jowar seed mini-kits for the upcoming season, aiming to boost jowar production and ensure fodder availability for livestock. Minister Chouhan emphasized the need for closer coordination between the Centre and states under a “Team Agriculture” approach, proposing regular virtual review meetings with states every month.

State-level agricultural teams would comprise agriculture ministers, secretaries, university experts, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, among others, to ensure regular monitoring and coordinated efforts. Chouhan also directed states to hold monthly district-level meetings with participation from relevant departments, scientists, banks, and farmers.

Chouhan launched a nationwide "Khet Bachao Abhiyan" from October 22 to November 30, urging participants to focus on balanced fertilization based on soil health cards, maintain soil fertility, protect beneficial insects, choose crops suitable for soil moisture and water availability, employ improved seeds, manage pests and diseases, and ensure wider access to Kisan Credit Cards.

He advocated strict action against the misuse of pesticides and pushed for the promotion of natural farming, integrated farming systems, and crop diversification on a mission mode. Maharashtra is also implementing the Maha Rozgar Melava across Konkan and Nashik, aiming to provide skills for global jobs. The Centre is actively working towards 100% government procurement of tur, urad, and masoor at minimum support prices, with payments made within 48 hours.

International market expansion for Indian agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, and foodgrains, is also being pursued.